A month ago, a new BMW prototype was spied for the first time. At the time, given its fastback shape and substantial similarities to the 3 Series GT (3GT) prototypes we've been spying for months, we deemed it to be a 3GT with some camouflage removed or altered. But, the prototype has been spotted again and the additional looks at the prototype have us convinced that it is indeed the F36 4 Series Gran Coupe (4GC) being tested.

Here's a brief analysis of the clear differences between the two prototype models. The comparison photos below should also be helpful.

The hood and cowl height and hood slope of the 4GC prototype is different than the 3GT.

The shorter front bumper overhang on the 4GC.

The roofline of the 4GC prototype differs from the 3GT - it's lower and sleeker, and the line is a smoother parabolic shape, without the sudden transition that the 3GT roofline has where the windshield joins the roof.

The front windshield is more raked on the 4GC than 3GT.

The B pillar of the 4GC appears wider than on the 3GT.

The bottom door cutlines on the 4GC are horizontal, compared to the 3GT's upsweeping cutline (as it approaches the rear tires).

The 4GC has much more of a trunk deck area, with the rear roofline ending much earlier than on the 3GT.

Codenamed as the F36, the 4 Series Gran Coupe will top the 3-Series/4-Series range just as the 6 Series Gran Coupe does for the 5-Series/6-Series range. Like the 6 Series Gran Coupe, it will be the flagship of the non-M series line for the 3/4-Series lineup and will be priced accordingly. For reference, the 2013 640i Gran Coupe is priced at a $1600 premium over the 2013 640i Coupe.

Like the 6 Series Gran Coupe, the 4 Series Gran Coupe combines the convenience of 4 doors (and larger rear passenger cabin) with the sleek roofline and silhouette of a coupe. It will share the upcoming 4 Series Coupe (F32)'s overall styling, just as the 6 Series Gran Coupe shares with its coupe counterpart. The 4 Series coupe recently revealed its kidney grille design (photos), which we will also see on the 4 Series Gran Coupe. It will also share the same engine offerings as the 4 Series coupe and convertible.

With the 4 Series Gran Coupe as an addition, here is a summary of the upcoming 3 Series / 4 Series lineup:

F30 3 Series Sedan

F31 3 Series Touring

F32 4 Series Coupe

F33 4 Series Convertible

F34 3 Series (GT) Gran Touring

F35 3 Series Long Wheelbase (China only)

F36 4 Series Gran Coupe

Just as the 6 Series Gran Coupe has spawned the M6 Gran Coupe, so it would come as no shock to see an eventual M4 Gran Coupe as well.

Expect the 4 Series Gran Coupe sometime in 2014 and to compete with the Audi A5 Sportback.

Those pictures actually show us more than before.
For example look at how the door line completely matches to that disguised rear window and how the opening of the rear door is disguised by a seperate piece of camouflage. The reflection of the light also makes out the full door opening showing that a seperate window is in fact attatched to the door.
The profile gives us the biggest indication that it is not a hatchback but a true four door Gran Coupe although the C-pillar is still disguised with plastic padding.

The 6er Gran Coupe has already got off to a great start , which bodes well for the 4er Gran Coupe that will offer all the style , and luxury in a more compact package at a more approachable price for many.
It now looks like things will get smaller as BMW are now looking at the potential of a 2er Gran Coupe as a more reflective choice for the compact class rather than a conventional sedan.

The Gran Coupe will of course increase the 3er/F30+ platform to another profitable new model alongside the 3er Gran Turismo which caters to customers who need the extra flexibility over a sedan. A market that is very popular in Europe.
To understand how popular this market is VW for example are introducing a Passat hatch with the next generation Passat (euro) model.

You will see how the BMW 3er Gran Turismo comes together in a few weeks time as a Concept car alongside the 1er CST at the Mondial l'automobile in Paris. Where both the 1er and 3er are significant with the aim of increasing market share as BMW focus on previewing highly profitable models that will generate a return. As the focus moves to product.

I don't get it. BMW is starting to make a bunch of cars that look the same and serve no purpose. 3-series 4-door and this? 5 series and 6 gran coupe. I can understand how the 6 gran coupe competes with the CLS...But this? Can someone explain their motives and strategy?

The 6er Gran Coupe has already got off to a great start , which bodes well for the 4er Gran Coupe that will offer all the style , and luxury in a more compact package at a more approachable price for many.
It now looks like things will get smaller as BMW are now looking at the potential of a 2er Gran Coupe as a more reflective choice for the compact class rather than a conventional sedan.

I like the 6GC, but it's far too large and pricey for me. I'm anxiously awaiting the F36 and F86.

Also, great news that the 2GC is becoming a reality. Though it sounds like it might be more of a hatch than a sedan? That wouldn't be my first choice.

Is that sketch of the 3GT or the 2GC?

Quote:

Originally Posted by Eüro_M_Drivër

Look at the picture of the 3GT vs 4GC viewing the rear. The 4 looks so much more smoother and squatted down I guess I could say lol

I don't get it. BMW is starting to make a bunch of cars that look the same and serve no purpose. 3-series 4-door and this? 5 series and 6 gran coupe. I can understand how the 6 gran coupe competes with the CLS...But this? Can someone explain their motives and strategy?

Serve no purpose? I think there is a purpose, meeting the customers needs, and having a lot of customers.

If I had a bit more cash I would consider the M5 but I don't think it looks "sporty" enough. The big six coupe is to big for a 2 door, but as a 4 door coupe, I would consider it. What appeals to me more then the M5, is a M6 grand coupe. (sadly still beyond my budget.)

Having owned a E36 M3 and E46 4 door, I liked the 4 door package but the look was not quite as sport oriented as I would have liked. Later, when I replaced the E46, I went for the E92. I enjoyed the 335i coupe and loved its look but access to the rear seat was not easy for my aging friends, and family needs so a grand coupe would be my choice if I were shopping for a new 3/4 series.

I don't like the new "GT" but others might, so I think BMW is trying to make cars which really match what the owners want. For that I respect and admire them, as not too many car company's do this. As for those who say there are to many BMW models, is that really possible? The more variations the more unique each will be.

off my soap box.

PS, I have a Z4 E89 because it looks great. Its really just a commuter car and Sunday drive car for me, but I love it.

Serve no purpose? I think there is a purpose, meeting the customers needs, and having a lot of customers.

If I had a bit more cash I would consider the M5 but I don't think it looks "sporty" enough. The big six coupe is to big for a 2 door, but as a 4 door coupe, I would consider it. What appeals to me more then the M5, is a M6 grand coupe. (sadly still beyond my budget.)

Having owned a E36 M3 and E46 4 door, I liked the 4 door package but the look was not quite as sport oriented as I would have liked. Later, when I replaced the E46, I went for the E92. I enjoyed the 335i coupe and loved its look but access to the rear seat was not easy for my aging friends, and family needs so a grand coupe would be my choice if I were shopping for a new 3/4 series.

I don't like the new "GT" but others might, so I think BMW is trying to make cars which really match what the owners want. For that I respect and admire this, as not too many car company's do this. As for those who say there are to many BMW models, is that really possible? The more variations the more unique each will be.

same thing that happened to the Model T, the world is ever evolving...

come on guys, choice is good! Someone (like myself) who needs a 4 door because of my kids but would love for it to have the looks of a coupe (however I wish they would not call it a coupe and just make the 3 series sedan that way instead of having a new model)

I am all for what BMW is doing so far except the GT stuff (its like they are looking for a way to make wagons look better for markets who don't like wagons, like the US...). Also wish they would offer a smaller roadster/coupe in M form for around the same price as the M3 (loved my '06 M Coupe, so much fun to drive) but I guess when the sales numbers are that low its hard to justify making them.

I do sort of understand the Gran Coupe line if it in fact offers more luxury than the regular sedan, like if Nappa/Novillo leather is offered for example or night vision or other tech features not normally offered in a 3 series. So someone who wants the luxury of a 5 series with a slightly smaller size can buy just that! Of course I really wonder how much different a M3 and M4 GC would be. both are probably going to have all the same option boxes to check except the GC will probably cost $4K more...

Gran Coupe / GT ... They are ugly... I mean... Seriously...
Yet there must have been a business case for them.
So what kind of people buy this? What describes the target market for these things?
I wonder...